Real Madrid manager Carlo Ancelotti has made a surprising decision regarding star forward Neymar Jr., opting to leave the Brazilian out of his matchday squads for the next two months. This move comes just 60 days before the start of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, set to be hosted across the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
The decision was confirmed by the club in an official statement released on Tuesday. “After a detailed evaluation with the medical and technical staff, it has been determined that the player Neymar Jr. requires a specific physical preparation period,” the statement read. “He will not be selected for official matches during September and October to ensure he reaches his optimal condition.”
Neymar, who joined Real Madrid from Paris Saint-Germain in a high-profile transfer last summer, has had a mixed start to his tenure in the Spanish capital. While showing flashes of his brilliant talent, his adaptation has been interrupted by minor fitness issues. The club’s directive explicitly rules out an injury, instead framing this as a planned conditioning block.
The timeline means Neymar will miss key fixtures in La Liga and the initial stages of the UEFA Champions League group phase. His last appearance for Los Blancos was in their 2-0 victory over Valencia on August 24th, where he provided an assist but was substituted in the 70th minute.
This development places immediate focus on the Brazilian national team, as Seleção coach Dorival Júnior prepares his squad for the upcoming World Cup. Neymar is expected to remain a central figure in Brazil’s plans, and the national federation is in close contact with Real Madrid regarding his regimen. The two-month period is designed to have the 32-year-old at peak fitness for the tournament kickoff in June 2026.
For Ancelotti, the choice underscores a pragmatic approach, prioritizing the long-term availability of a key asset over his short-term use. It is a significant gamble, removing a game-changer from his lineup during a busy period, but one the Italian believes is necessary. “The most important thing is the player,” Ancelotti was quoted in the club’s release. “We are all working towards the same objective: having Neymar at 100% for the decisive moments of the season and for his national team.”
All eyes will now be on Neymar’s training progress at Real Madrid’s Valdebebas facility, with his return to competitive action currently slated for early November.
